Venue Description

Housed in the attic of the early eighteenth-century church of the old St Thomas’ Hospital, this atmospheric museum offers a unique insight into the history of medicine and surgery. The original timber framed Herb Garret was once used to dry and store herbs for patients’ medicines and in 1822 an operating theatre was included. Predating anaesthetics and antiseptics, it is the oldest surviving surgical theatre in Europe.

Accessibility

The Museum is in the roof of St Thomas’ Church. There is no level access from the street to St Thomas’ Church. There is a 52-step narrow spiral staircase from the main Church Foyer Entrance to the shop, herb garret, antechamber and operating theatre. While we do not have a public lift, we do have have access to a small lift for occasional use by our visitors who require it. While we do not have public toilets, we do have have access to a small staff toilet for occasional use by our visitors who require it. For further information, please check out our access page: https://oldoperatingtheatre.com/visiting-us/access/

Accessibility Guide

Accessibility Guide Link: https://oldoperatingtheatre.com/visiting-us/access/

Access Statement

Access Statement Link: https://oldoperatingtheatre.com/visiting-us/access/

Accessible Performances

We offer BSL tours on set dates, which are advertised on our website. During the holidays we are holding creative workshops aimed at neurodivergent children and their families.

Awards List

We are an Accredited Museum, a Living Wage Employer, and a Dementia Friendly Venue. In 2022 we received a Travellers' Choice award from Tripadvisor, and an Experts' Choice Award from TripExpert.

Toilets

While we do not have public toilets, we do have have access to a small staff toilet for occasional use by our visitors who require it. For more information, please check out our access page: https://oldoperatingtheatre.com/visiting-us/access/

Staff

All of our staff are Dementia Friends, and have undergone disability awareness training. Please be advised that some volunteers may need to contact staff in order to support you during your visit.